A Ballinasloe book launch and art exhibition

The new novel from Nuala O’Connor, the new exhibition from Group 8

A detail from Quay Street, Athlone, by John Soden, which will be shown as part of the Group 8 exhibition.

BECOMING BELLE, the new novel by Nuala O’Connor, and MAPS, a visual arts exhibition from Group 8, will both be launched in Ballinasloe Library next week.

Becoming Belle, by Group 8 member Nuala O’Connor, is a witty feminist novel following the fortunes of music hall actress Isabel Bilton, who was the last Countess Clancarty to occupy Garbally Court in Ballinasloe. It will be launched by broadcaster and former TD Mary O’Rourke in the library's Church Gallery.

MAPS, featuring work by Group 8 members will display art and writing that focuses on the theme of maps - geographical as well as maps of the mind and heart. Theatre director Eamonn O’Donoghue will open the exhibition, which will then run for two weeks. There will be an artists' talk on September 21 from 6pm to 8pm.

The launch takes place on Tuesday September 11 at 6pm. Admission is free and all are welcome. See thegroup8.blogspot.com